Flowing between the boundaries of fine furniture and fine art, John Lee’s name has become synonymous with innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship.
Inspired by naturally occurring geometric forms, his current work is exploring the enhancement of timber’s natural properties whilst experimenting with form, function and finish. Concentrating on making his furniture more sensually appealing, Lee is investigating textured finishes by exposing the timbers natural grain patterns on his dynamic forms. This dynamism is most evident in his recent work; in this work he methodically and with great dexterity creates a ‘twist’ in the plane of many of his pieces. In creating this change he takes great care to ensure that the proportion and scale of the manipulation is correct and deftly crafted. Observers of these pieces may be drawn to the changes in plane, the curves of the drawers and the ‘rightness’ of the proportion but they will delight with the detail; drawers that effortlessly open, finely finished jointing and beautifully understated leather lined drawers all combine to make this furniture that will occupy a special place in the mind of all who see it.
Working for both private and corporate clients, John’s work can be found in the National Museum of Ireland, the Irish Government Buildings, Aras an Uachtarain (Irish Presidents Residence) and numerous private collections, both nationally and internationally.
Recent notable achievements include exhibiting at the prestigious SOFA Chicago and COLLECT 2010 at the Saatchi Gallery, London, a major commission for The Irish Government Buildings, Leinster House, a commission for Aras an Uachtarain (Irish Presidents residence) and the acquisition of “Carrigeen” and “Core” by the National Museum of Ireland for their modern collection.
In March 2011, John was awarded the Irish Crafts Councils Bursary Award and most recently was awarded the prestigious commission to design and make a new Irish Presidential Inauguration Chair for our new President Michael D. Higgins.
